I did not grow up in the 1943, when this film was made, nor am I a student of the history of the times, but SO THIS IS WASHINGTON was an endearingly funny movie. I understand why some would think this film is not for everyone. It's not. But there are many of us who adore comedies from this era, who know how to enjoy a film in its historical context, and who don't ask those who wrote, directed, or acted in the film to think like us.
This was a popular radio show brought to the screen, but I did not know this when I first saw it on TCM. It uses familiar comedy devices: small town life vs. big city folks, absurd inventions by odd inventors, memory loss, and government as a incomprehensible behemoth. Lum and Abner, the proprietors of a general store in a small town, become the toast of a big city by being their small town selves.
It is not overly complex, it has a message ideal for unity during wartime, and it lasts only an hour. That's plenty of time for this particular adventure, but it left my wife and me curious for more. This one was entertaining enough for us to purchase three Lum and Abner titles.
If you love comedies from this era, you should enjoy this one. A lot.